by Fiona Mpofu
60 students recently graduated from Sikhethimpilo Center in Maphisa after completing practical skills courses in the year 2023.
30 male and 30 female students graduated from their 3 month courses that they under took in clothing and technology, brick and block laying, agriculture and hotel and catering.
Speaking to Matobo Youth Development Initiative (MYDI) programs officer for Sikhethimpilo Mr Mqhelisi Mlambo highlighted that apart from equiping the students with the knowledge from the institution, they also assist them in acquiring field experience.
“We try to look for attachment for them for three months and also give them start up materials, start up kits for girls and we give them machines and cloth for sewing,” said Mlambo.
This is one of the projects in Matobo district that is meant to address the challenges that face young people who spenmd most of their time at home.
“We want to address the issue of youths in rural areas who are lying idle and in the long run exposes them to drug and substance abuse, in some cases they end up engaging in sexual activities,” added Mlambo.
This project caters for youths from 16 to 24 years of age in Matobo district. The center houses its students for 3 months, provides food and toiletries for its students.
Sikhethimpilo is affiliated with Esigodini vocational training center which is responsible for the issuing out of certificates.
